Inconsistency has been South Africa’s story so far in the series, be it in T20s or in the ongoing five-match ODI series. The trend continued in the third one-dayer, as the Proteas succumbed to an embarrassing 73 runs defeat at Manuka Oval.
The touring party looked in control when Hashim Amla and Quinton de Kock were batting, but the middle-order, expect AB de Villiers, was ripped apart by Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.
Amla struck his 18th ODI century and stitched a 108-run partnership for the opening wicket to put the match on course of an exciting finish. South Africa, meanwhile, lost wickets of de Kock (47), Faf du Plessis (17) and Rilee Rossouw (4).
The Africans, however, recovered from quick blows as Amla and de Villiers made a 76-run partnership for the fourth wicket. But, as de Villiers (52) and Amla (102) dismissed within a space of one over, the Proteas lost their way.
Remaining batsmen failed to show any resistance as the Aussie seamers bundled them for a mere 256 in 44.3 overs. Hazlewood continued his fine form and picked three wickets, while Starc finished with four.
“The boys bowled very well, in the right spots even after the ball got soft and it started to reverse,” Steven Smith said. “Hazlewood is outstanding these days and it’s great to see Starcy (Starc) back as well with some wickets.”
Earlier, batting first, Australia posted a mammoth 329, courtesy a fine century from opener Aaron Finch. The Aussie provided a 118-run start to the team with David Warner, who made a well compiled fifty and looked good during his stay.
Smith also played well and made an unbeaten 55-ball 73 to put Australia well past 300 runs mark. Morne Morkel took two wickets for the Africans, while Vernon Philander, de Villiers and Farhaan Behardien took one wicket apiece.
“Finch laid the foundation early which was good for a big score,” Smith said. “I had a pretty free reign to do whatever i wanted [about his flicks on the leg side]. We all practice hard in the nets for such shots and that’s how we get better, that’s how it comes out in the game.”
